Network Rail is underway with a £1.6 million viaduct strengthening project in Lancashire.

The scheme will see major engineering work carried out at Whalley viaduct on the Clitheroe to Manchester Victoria line.

Work includes installing 2,800 steel brackets and 16,800 anchors to the side of the structure to improve its long term stability. In addition, around 1.4km of handrails will be fitted to create safe conditions for workers while the project is carried out.

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A new 400 metre drainage channel will be dug at ground level along with 16 catch pits, including a flow control chamber. During heavy rainfall, excess surface water will be held in these pits before being discharged into the River Calder.

The project is due to be completed on 31 March 2017.

Michael Lally, scheme project manager at Network Rail, said: "Network Rail is committed to Lancashire's railway which is why we are investing £1.6 million as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan to safeguard the future of this iconic viaduct in Whalley. The work is essential to protect the structure so it can continue to serve important freight and passenger services which are vital for the regional and national economies."

(LM)